'Cheeseburger in Paradise' to benefit Cancer House of Hope

Date: 2/11/2009

By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent



CHICOPEE Come in from the cold and warm up to the tunes of Changes in Latitude on Feb. 28 as the Cancer House of Hope hosts a fun, casual and simple fund-raiser to support local cancer programs.

The Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive will be transformed into an island oasis from 7 to 11 p.m. for a "Cheeseburger in Paradise Bar-B-Que."

Sisters Barbara Perry of Reminder Publications and Lisa Lemon of Canary Blomstrom Insurance were instrumental in coordinating the logistics for the fund-raiser with the Cancer House of Hope (CHH) staff, according to Cheryl A. Gorski, executive director, Cancer House of Hope.

"Barbara and Lisa are very passionate about the organization and wanted to spearhead a very different, casual, fun event that could raise money for the Cancer House of Hope," Gorski said during an interview with Reminder Publications.

Gorski added that her staff "loved the idea" of putting together an event that was unique to CHH. Traditional fund-raisers for the organization include a bike ride, golf tournament, tennis tournament and luminaria.

"We believe a Jimmy Buffet barbecue party would possibly appeal to people who may not have attended a CHH event in the past," Gorski added .

Persons attending the event are encouraged to wear island-themed attire and flip flops and be prepared to have a great time, she said. The menu will include basic barbecue fare, including hamburgers, salads and desserts, and, of course, Margaritas and Coronas.

Changes in Latitude, a well-known Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band, will provide the entertainment throughout the evening. In addition, there will be a raffle for three gift baskets.

Gorski welcomed area residents to participate in the fund-raiser since all money generated stays in Hampden County, offering support to hundreds of people who are facing a battle with cancer.

"The Cancer House of Hope provides an environment where cancer survivors and their families know they are not alone, where they can benefit from support services and wellness programs, wigs and mastectomy bras, and utilize the lending libraries all free of charge," said Gorski.

Tickets are $35 per person and $23 of the ticket price is tax-deductible.

To purchase tickets or more information, call the Cancer House of Hope, 562-0110 or 782-5500, Reminder Publications, 525-6661, ext. 135, or Canary Blomstrom Insurance, 786-7004.

For more information on CHH locations and its programs and services, visit www.cancerhouseofhope.org.